
The Stand-In Thief 2017
In Masafumi Nishida's quirky 2017 comedy *The Stand-In Thief*, Ryuhei Maruyama stars as Hajime Onuki, a former thief turned welder living a quiet life with his girlfriend—until a shadow from his past resurfaces.
Director: Masafumi Nishida
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Stand-In Thief (2017) about?
A reformed thief is blackmailed into a mansion heist, only to be mistaken for someone else when caught in the act. Desperate to avoid exposure, he leans into the confusion, turning a dire situation into a chaotic comedy of errors. The film's core revolves around identity, chance encounters, and the absurdity of being trapped in a lie.
Who directed The Stand-In Thief?
Masafumi Nishida directed this 2017 comedy. Known for his work in Japanese cinema, Nishida infuses the film with a blend of suspense and humor, crafting a unique tone that keeps audiences guessing.
Who stars in The Stand-In Thief?
The film features Ryuhei Maruyama as Hajime Onuki, with standout performances from Masachika Ichimura, Yusuke Santamaria, Anna Ishibashi, and Mitsuki Takahata rounding out the ensemble.
Is The Stand-In Thief (2017) worth watching?
As an unrated Japanese comedy, it delivers a fresh take on the mistaken-identity trope with solid comedic timing from its cast. While it may not be a blockbuster, its clever premise and breezy runtime make it a fun pick for fans of lighthearted crime comedies. Expect laughs and a few surprises along the way.
How long is The Stand-In Thief?
The Stand-In Thief runs for 114 minutes, offering a tight, engaging runtime perfect for a single viewing.
🎥 Trailer
About The Stand-In Thief (2017) — A Comedy of Errors Where Mistakes Make the Best Alibis
In Masafumi Nishida's quirky 2017 comedy *The Stand-In Thief*, Ryuhei Maruyama stars as Hajime Onuki, a former thief turned welder living a quiet life with his girlfriend—until a shadow from his past resurfaces. Threatened by a former partner, Hajime is pressured into a risky heist: breaking into the mansion of a beloved picture book author. But when he's caught mid-crime, a series of hilarious misunderstandings ensues, forcing Hajime to improvise as someone else to avoid disaster. With its blend of lighthearted mischief and mistaken identity, the film crafts a playful yet tense atmosphere where paranoia and farce collide. The cast, led by Maruyama alongside Masachika Ichimura and Yusuke Santamaria, brings sharp comedic timing to the absurd situations unfolding in this Japanese crime-comedy gem.
*The Stand-In Thief* thrives on its premise of identity confusion, where every glance or misheard name could unravel Hajime's ruse. The film's tone balances nervous energy with genuine humor, making it a standout in the comedy genre. Nishida's direction keeps the pacing brisk, packing in twists and visual gags while exploring themes of redemption and second chances. Whether you're drawn to its clever plot or the charisma of its ensemble, this 2017 film offers a delightfully unpredictable ride from start to finish.